The Three Refuges

 
{mp3}chantings/TakingRefuge{/mp3}

 
I take refuge in the Buddha, the one who shows me the way in this life
I take refuge in the Dharma, the way of understanding and of love
I take refuge in the Sangha, the community that lives in harmony and awareness
[Bell]

Dwelling in the refuge of Buddha, I clearly see the path of light and beauty in the world
Dwelling in the refuge of Dharma, I learn to open many doors on the path of transformation
Dwelling in the refuge of Sangha, shining light that supports me, keeping my practice free of obstruction
[Bell]

 
Taking refuge in the Buddha in myself, I aspire to help all people recognize their own awakened nature, realizing the mind of love
Taking refuge in the Dharma in myself, I aspire to help all people fully master the ways of practice, and walk together on the path of liberation
Taking refuge in the Sangha in myself, I aspire to help all people may build four-fold communities, to embrace all  beings and support their transformation.
[Bell, Bell]